In preparation for security duties for the 2023 general elections, Nigerian Police officer nationwide are to personally fortified with more security outfits.
To this effect, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has directed the immediate distribution of anti-riot equipment and kits to officers of the force nationwide.
Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement quoted his principal as saying bullet-proof vests with armored plates, ballistic helmets, long and short-range tear gas for civil disorder management and stun guns be provided to them.
The IGPnoted that the police needed to be well equipped to ensure the safety of the officers and other Nigerians during the forthcomingelections.
The statement said other tools to be supplied were additional batches of uniforms, kits and accoutrements should be handed over to the officers with immediate effect across the country.
Baba warned the officers to always dress clean in the right uniforms adding that they are well-suited to discharge their duties professionally before, during and after the 2023 general elections.
He vowed that no stone would be left unturned in the prevention of crimes, hence the welfare of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, saying preparations are already in top gear for the elections.
The statement partly read, “This distribution is coming on the heels of the recently procured batch of the items to cater for the welfare of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force as preparations are in top gear for the forthcoming General Elections, to optimize professionalism and friendly engagements in crowd control, as well as the subduing of any civil unrest; and to maximally adopt modern techniques of curtailing crimes and criminality.
“The IGP therefore assures of his administration’s continuous commitment to continually provide the needful and upgrade the operational capability of the Force at all levels in order to completely stamp out crimes and criminality in the country while providing top-notch election security management for the 2023 General Elections.
“Equally, the Inspector-General of Police charges officers and men of the Force to exhibit discipline, decency, and respect people’s fundamental rights while discharging their duties.”
